Question 1

When should a water tank be relined instead of replaced?

Accepted Answer

Relining with an RPVC liner system is usually the best option when the tank’s structure (shell, roof, supports) is still serviceable but the internal barrier has deteriorated or failed. It restores a watertight, compliant interior at a fraction of the cost and downtime of full replacement.

Question 2

When is replacement the better choice?

Accepted Answer

Replacement tends to be the lower-risk choice once the structure itself is compromised — major structural deterioration or severe corrosion of the shell. At that point, repairs and relining often defer rather than solve the problem and can cost more over the asset’s life.

Question 3

Why does the tool sometimes recommend an inspection first?

Accepted Answer

Internal condition — corrosion, liner integrity, and structural soundness — is the biggest driver of cost and cannot be judged reliably from the outside. If that information is unknown, a scoping inspection is recommended before committing to repair, reline, or replacement.

Question 4

Can you inspect a tank without taking it out of service?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. PC Water Infrastructure uses ROV and UAV inspection methods that can assess condition with minimal disruption and frequently without full dewatering, which is valuable where downtime must be minimised.

Question 5

Is this decision tool a formal engineering assessment?

Accepted Answer

No. It provides general guidance based on your answers to help you understand likely options. A formal engineering assessment or condition inspection is required to confirm the right path before works are scoped.

Repair, Reline or Replace?

What is the tank used for?

Four Possible Paths

Inspect first

Targeted repair

RPVC relining

Replacement

For the teams making the call on aging tank assets

RPVC Liner Systems

Tank Inspection Technology

Tank Compliance Checker

Repair vs Reline vs Replace — FAQs

READY TO CONFIRM THE RIGHT PATH?